When it comes to choosing the right tires for your vehicle, the options can be overwhelming.
In this post, I’ll be diving into the world of tires, specifically focusing on the Michelin vs Nexen debate.
We’ll explore their intriguing histories, analyze their dry, wet, and snow performances, delve into their mileage warranties, average lifespan, and prices.
By the end, we’ll have a clear winner, helping you make an informed decision for your next tire purchase.
Michelin vs Nexen – Comparison Table
| Michelin | Nexen | |
| Country of Origin | France | South Korea |
| Year Founded | 1889 | 1942 |
| Made In | Canada, France, Germany, Spain, and the United States | Richfield, OH, Korea, China, or the Czech Republic |
| Parent | Compagnie Générale des Établissements Michelin SCA (France) | Nexen Tire Corporation (South Korea) |
About the Brands
1. Michelin
The Michelin brand has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1889 in France.
Originally established by the Michelin brothers, André and Edouard, the company quickly gained recognition for its innovative tire designs.
Over the years, Michelin has become synonymous with excellence in the tire industry.
It has pioneered numerous advancements, including the first removable pneumatic tire, the radial tire, and the run-flat tire.
These innovations have revolutionized the automotive industry, enhancing safety and performance.
Michelin’s commitment to quality and durability has earned the brand a reputation for producing high-performance tires trusted by drivers worldwide.
As part of the Compagnie Générale des Établissements Michelin SCA, the brand continues to push boundaries, constantly striving for excellence and remaining at the forefront of tire technology.
Today, Michelin remains a global leader in the tire industry, providing a wide range of high-quality tires for various vehicles and applications.
Mostly Known for Manufacturing Tires For:
- Passenger cars
- SUVs (Sport Utility Vehicles)
- Light trucks
- Commercial trucks
- Motorcycles
- Bicycles
- Racing cars
- Aircraft
2. Nexen
Nexen Tire is a renowned tire brand founded in 1942 in South Korea.
It has a rich history spanning several decades.
Initially, the company operated as Heung-A Tire, manufacturing bicycle tires and tubes.
Over time, it expanded its product range to include passenger car tires, light truck tires, and more.
In 2000, the company changed its name to Nexen Tire Corporation.
Throughout its history, Nexen Tire has focused on innovation and technological advancements.
It has established itself as a global player in the tire industry, with a reputation for producing high-quality and performance-driven tires.
The brand has invested in research and development, resulting in cutting-edge tire designs and technologies.
Nexen Tire Corporation, the parent company, continues to prioritize customer satisfaction, safety, and environmental consciousness.
It operates state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and has a strong global presence, supplying tires to various markets worldwide.
With a commitment to excellence and a legacy of over seven decades, Nexen Tire remains a trusted choice for drivers seeking reliable and high-performing tires.
Mostly Known for Manufacturing Tires For:
- Passenger cars
- High-performance cars
- SUVs (Sport Utility Vehicles)
- Crossovers
- Light trucks
- All-terrain vehicles
- Commercial vans
Differences
1. Dry Performance
I’m going to compare the performance of two summer tires as they are the ideal type in dry weather.
I’m taking a look at the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S vs the Nexen N Fera Sport SU2.
In my evaluation of the dry performance, I rate the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S a 4.7 out of 5.
Its exceptional dry grip, precise steering and handling, short braking distances, and Multi-Compound Construction contribute to this high rating.
Endorsements from prestigious manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz AMG and Ferrari further validate its strong dry performance capabilities.
The Nexen N Fera Sport SU2 tire receives a rating of 4.2 for overall performance.
It offers good dry performance, precise handling, and high grip levels on dry roads.
The high-grip tread compound and optimized tread design contribute positively to its performance.
However, some reviews mention understeering handling behavior and average mileage, slightly impacting its score.
Based on these ratings, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S stands out as the superior tire for dry performance.
2. Wet Performance
For the wet performance, I’ll be comparing the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 vs the Nexen N’Priz AH8.
Based on my research and personal wet performance rating, the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 tire receives a rating of 4.4 out of 5, indicating good wet traction and grip.
Its all-season capability and asymmetric tread pattern contribute to its impressive wet performance.
Similarly, the Nexen N’Priz AH8 tire receives a rating of 4.3 out of 5, showcasing good grip, stability, and reliability on wet roads.
Both tires offer comparable wet performance, leading to a tie.
3. Snow Performance
We all know that you need dedicated winter tires if you’re going to be driving on harsh winter conditions.
That’s why I’ll be comparing the snow performance of two specialized winter tires – Michelin X-Ice Xi3 vs Nexen Winguard Ice Plus.
As someone who rates snow performance on a scale of 1 to 5, I would give the Michelin X-Ice Xi3 tire a score of 4.6.
Its exceptional grip, hydroplaning resistance, long-lasting performance, and specialized V-shaped tread pattern contribute to its high rating.
The Flex-Ice tread compound ensures reliable traction in icy and snowy conditions, making it a top choice for winter driving.
On the other hand, the Nexen Winguard Ice Plus tire receives a rating of 4.4 due to its dual V-shaped tread design and effective drainage grooves.
While both tires perform well, the Michelin X-Ice Xi3 emerges as the winner with its slightly higher snow performance rating.
4. Mileage Warranty and Tread Life
| Michelin | Nexen | |
| Treadwear Warranty | up to 90,000 miles tread life warranty | up to 80,000 miles tread life warranty |
| Average Tread Life | Michelin tires are designed to last between 45,000 to 85,000 miles on average. | On average, Nexen tires are expected to last around 45,000 to 60,000 miles. |
After conducting my research, I have found that Michelin tires offer a slightly higher mileage warranty compared to Nexen tires.
Michelin provides up to a 90,000-mile tread life warranty, whereas Nexen offers up to 80,000 miles.
However, when it comes to average lifespan, Michelin tires tend to last between 45,000 to 85,000 miles, while Nexen tires typically last around 45,000 to 60,000 miles.
Therefore, Michelin tires generally have a longer average lifespan than Nexen tires.
5. Prices
In this section, I’ll be taking a look at the price ranges of both tire brands – Michelin vs Nexen.
I’ll be using one of the biggest tire and wheel retailers in the US for this comparison – Discount Tire.
Here is a comprehensive table that showcases each brand has to offer:
| Michelin | Nexen | |
| Average Price Range (Discount Tire) | $112 to $1,160 /ea | $78 to $384 /ea |
| Cheapest Tire (Discount Tire) | X-ICE Snow goes from $112 – $493 /ea | N Priz AH5 goes from $78 – $142 /ea |
| Most Expensive Tire (Discount Tire) | Pilot Sport 4S goes from $236 – $1,160 /ea | Roadian AT PRO RA8 goes from $148 – $384 /ea |
6. Pros and Cons
Michelin
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔ Probably the most reputed brand in the industry | ❌ Some of their tires can get very expensive |
| ✔ Michelin tires are known for their high quality and durability | |
| ✔ Their tires are equipped with advanced technologies that provide maximum fuel-saving, noise reduction, and performance |
Nexen
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔ Good value for their price | ❌ Not as reputed as other premium tire brands |
| ✔ Wide range of tire options for different types of vehicles, including passenger cars, SUVs, trucks, and CUVs | |
| ✔ OEM supplier to big automakers such as Chrysler, Volkswagen, and Hyundai |
7. Popular Tires
Here are some notable tires from Michelin:
- Pilot Sport 4S
- Defender T+H
- Premier A/S
Some of Nexen’s best tires are shown below:
- N’Fera RU5
- N’Priz AH8
- Roadian AT Pro RA8
Which Is the Better Brand Overall?
Based on the evaluations of dry performance, wet performance, snow performance, mileage warranty, and average lifespan, the Michelin tire brand emerges as the better pick overall.
With its exceptional dry grip, precise handling, and endorsements from prestigious manufacturers, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S stands out for dry performance.
While both brands offer comparable wet performance, the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 receives a slightly higher rating.
In terms of snow performance, the Michelin X-Ice Xi3 earns a slightly higher score.
Additionally, Michelin tires tend to have a longer average lifespan.
Therefore, Michelin is the winner in this comparison.